A recent video circulated on social media platform X.com shows Latvian tennis player Jelena Ostapenko supposedly directing strong criticism at Anna Kalinskaya's supporter following her loss to Kalinskaya in the first round of the Dubai WTA 1000 tournament on February 16. In the video, Ostapenko appears to label a spectator, who was reportedly present at the match, as 'Putin-supporting rubbish.' This exchange has sparked discussions about the implications of athletes' comments about political figures and supporters, especially in the context of ongoing tensions between Latvia and Russia due to the war in Ukraine.

The sender of the video claims that Ostapenko's remarks during the match included a call for all Russians to be banned from playing tennis, which has further galvanized support for Kalinskaya amidst the controversial backdrop of Russian athletes competing under 'neutral' status in international sports. Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, the inclusion of Russian players remains a contentious issue, with some arguing it should not occur while military aggression persists.

TVNET reached out to Ostapenko's manager, Edgars Bulis, who is reportedly working with the athlete to navigate her public image and partnerships. This incident highlights how sports and political sentiments intertwine, and how the statements made by athletes can be used or misconstrued for propaganda purposes, especially amidst the toxic narratives shaped by ongoing geopolitical conflicts.